A man walked into a Welsh pet shop and handed over a bag, claiming it contained a dead cat – only for the shopkeeper to find a corn snake inside that was very much alive.
RSPCA Cymru has launched an appeal for information in the hope of tracing the individual who dumped the snake at the Pawfection Pet Shop, in in Abertillery, Monmouthshire, on Wednesday last week.
The orange and brown snake in the tied bag was inside a cat food container and wrapped in a towel. He came into the care of the RSPCA before being transferred to specialist facilities for ongoing care.
BIRD
The man had entered the pet shop the day before the incident with his daughter, enquiring about buying a pet bird. Anyone who may know the individual has been urged to contact the charity.
Fiona Thomas, RSPCA animal collection officer, said: “It beggars belief that someone would walk into a pet shop and dump a helpless live snake like this.
“Bizarrely, we understand the man pretended the bag contained a dead cat, and quickly left the shop. Inside was the corn snake inside a cat food packet and wrapped in a towel.
“Fortunately, the snake soon came into our care and was then transferred to specialist facilities.
“Exotic pets are a big commitment and their needs are just the same as they would be in the wild. People should only take one on if they have thoroughly researched the needs of the particular species and what is required in the care of the animal, and only consider keeping one if they can ensure they are fully able to provide for these needs.
“We are eager to speak to the individual alleged to have dumped this snake and anyone with information can contact our inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018.”
